The 111th edition of the Tour de France is set to be historic, marking the first time the race will not conclude in Paris due to the upcoming Olympic Games. Instead, Nice will host the grand finale, a city familiar to the peloton as it often features in the 'Race to the Sun.' This year's Tour de France starts in Florence, making it the 25th European city to host the Grand Départ from abroad.
Jonas Vingegaard, the reigning champion, is back to defend his title, with Bart Lemmen stepping in for Sepp Kuss. Among his competitors are top cyclists like Tadej Pogacar, Remco Evenepoel, Geraint Thomas, and Tom Pidcock. The race will consist of eight flat stages, four hilly stages, seven mountain courses, and two time trials, providing a diverse and challenging route for the participants.
The first mountain stage, Pinerolo to Valloire, will feature significant climbs, including the Col de Montgenèvre and the legendary Col du Galibier. This stage is expected to be a critical point in the race, offering a perfect playground for the favorites to make their moves.
Another highlight is the 9th stage, a loop around Troyes, featuring 14 sectors of tricky white paths. This stage promises to be a unique challenge, breaking the monotony of flat stages and adding an element of unpredictability.
The 14th stage will see the peloton pay tribute to Raymond Poulidor with a finish at the Montée du Pla d'Adet, fifty years after his victory there. This stage includes the legendary Col du Tourmalet, adding to its significance.
As the race nears its conclusion, the 19th stage from Embrun to Isola 2000 will be a grueling test with climbs like the Col de Vars and the Cime de la Bonette. This 'ultra-mountain stage' is expected to be decisive in the general classification.
The Tour will conclude with a 34 km time trial from Monaco to Nice, a nod to the dramatic 1989 finale where Greg LeMond won by just eight seconds. This final stage could see last-minute changes in the standings, making for an exciting end to a historic race.
- The stages of the Tour de France 2024 are broadcast from June 29, live on France Télévisions and Eurosport. The Tour launch takes place in Florence at 12 p.m., with commentators providing insights and analysis throughout the competition.
- The 21st stage, a time trial from Monaco to Nice, is particularly noteworthy as it will be the first time the Tour concludes outside of Paris. This historic change is due to the preparations for the Paris Olympics, adding an extra layer of excitement to the race's finale.
